Syria Insists Israel Behind Terrorist Assassination

Syrian government officials insisted Israel was behind the assassination of a Hezbollah terrorist leader despite a Sunni Muslim group from Lebanon claiming responsibility. "The Zionist enemy is responsible for the terrorist act in Beirut and bears full responsibility for the shameful and despicable crime," a Syrian statement read.

The Free People of Sunnah Brigade assumed responsibility for the assassination of senior Hezbollah leader Hassan Hawlo al-Lakiss in Beirut. Hezbollah is also responsible for numerous deadly terrorist actions against Lebanese civilians as well as the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafic Hariri. Syria is a stanch supporter of Hezbollah.